Heavy rain falling in Fiji

The Fiji Meterological Service says Cyclone Evan is already hitting parts of the island nation.

The Metservice says the storm is expected to pass over the northern and western parts of Fiji over the next 24 to 36 hours.

A Fiji forecaster, Amat Sangh, says its effects are already being felt.

"It has started to affect the Northern division, as well as the northern parts of Viti Levu. There's a lot of rain. We have a hurricane warning for the Yasawa group, gusting of up to 260 kilometers per hour."

Amat Sangh, says it is also warning there will be storm surges with heavy swells.